State Police display elder abuse awareness bumper stickers

PORTLAND, Maine (NEWS CENTER) -- On Friday, State Police cruisers began displaying "No Excuse for Elder Abuse" bumper stickers to help raise awareness of the problem.

The Chief of State Police Colonel Robert Williams said more than 33,000 older Mainers are abused each year - including financial exploitation, physical and sexual abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, and abandonment.

State Police Sergeant Patrick Hood has spearheaded the State Police effort. He said "Elder abuse cases are very complex and in order to properly address them, it's important for a team of people to be at the table."

Hood said raising awareness about elder abuse to helpful to remind the public that the problem exists. Family, neighbors, and friends are encouraged to check in on a neighbor or speak up when they noticed something that could change someone's life.

The stickers will be displayed through June 15, which is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Click here to learn more about how to prevent and respond to elder abuse in Maine.